Japan Launches Major AI Project to Compete with the US and China
Technology
Japan is stepping up its ambitions in the global artificial intelligence and robotics race by launching Noetra, a large-scale national initiative designed to develop a domestic foundation model for physical AI and strengthen the country's technological independence.
The Noetra project will receive more than ¥380 billion (approximately $2.33 billion) in government funding during its first year. It is also backed by 44 Japanese companies, including SoftBank, Honda and Sony.
According to Noetra CEO Hironobu Tamba, the initiative has brought together Japan's leading AI specialists and could become a decisive opportunity for the country to remain competitive as the United States and China accelerate AI development.
To build its computing infrastructure, the company has purchased 27,500 Nvidia Rubin processors. Construction of the AI infrastructure is scheduled to begin in April 2027, with operations expected to start in June 2028.
The foundation model being developed by Noetra is intended primarily for robotics and industrial applications. It is expected to provide Japanese companies with a secure domestic AI platform while allowing them to maintain full control over their data instead of relying on foreign technology providers.
The Japanese government has identified artificial intelligence as a strategic priority. Under its long-term plan, 10 million AI-powered robots are expected to be deployed across manufacturing, shipbuilding and other industries by 2040, aiming to improve productivity and strengthen the country's technological sovereignty.
According to Noetra CEO Hironobu Tamba, the initiative has brought together Japan's leading AI specialists and could become a decisive opportunity for the country to remain competitive as the United States and China accelerate AI development.
To build its computing infrastructure, the company has purchased 27,500 Nvidia Rubin processors. Construction of the AI infrastructure is scheduled to begin in April 2027, with operations expected to start in June 2028.
The foundation model being developed by Noetra is intended primarily for robotics and industrial applications. It is expected to provide Japanese companies with a secure domestic AI platform while allowing them to maintain full control over their data instead of relying on foreign technology providers.
The Japanese government has identified artificial intelligence as a strategic priority. Under its long-term plan, 10 million AI-powered robots are expected to be deployed across manufacturing, shipbuilding and other industries by 2040, aiming to improve productivity and strengthen the country's technological sovereignty.
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